Consumerization of healthcare services and devices drives integration with smart home ecosystems and new business models.

Connected healthcare is taking a more prominent role in the smart home as the industry explores new use cases to drive consumer interest and forge revenue-generating partnerships.

Parks Associates research shows that 35% of U.S. broadband households own and use at least one connected health or wellness device, and 12% own more than one. Additionally, smartphone owners use numerous health-based apps both on their own and as required or recommended by their employer or health insurer.

This trend has galvanized interest from a variety of players, including health insurers, device manufacturers, service providers, and app developers for the potential to improve consumer care experience and generate new revenues from innovative services.

Parks Associates notes there are multiple connected healthcare business models being tested now, which will continue through 2017. The trend will offer multiple opportunities for companies to expand healthcare service and also take the lead in protecting consumers and their data.